# ID: 0161281b-002a-4e9d-b491-3b386404edaa

## Title: HVAC-as-a-Service Approach for Cannabis Retrofits to Solve Capital Barriers - John Zimmerman Part 2

## Type: podcast

## Link: http://sites.libsyn.com/568690/hvac-as-a-service-approach-for-cannabis-retrofits-to-solve-capital-barriers-john-zimmerman-part-2

## Publish Date: Mon, 18 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

## Duration: 21:18

## Thumbnail:
![Thumbnail](media/Podcast_Test/podcast_0161281b-002a-4e9d-b491-3b386404edaa_thumbnail_John_Zimmerman_Part_2.png)

## Description:
In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host [Gary McCreadie](https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/) continues his conversation with [John Zimmerman](https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-zimmerman-p-e-3161216/), Founder & CEO of [Harvest Integrated](https://www.linkedin.com/company/harvestintegrated/), about HVAC solutions for the cannabis industry. John explains how his company approaches retrofit applications by offering full solutions, including ductwork, electrical services, and equipment installation. He emphasizes the importance of designing scalable, efficient systems without burdening growers with unnecessary upfront costs, providing them with long-term solutions for their HVAC needs.

The discussion also focuses on the best types of equipment for grow operations. John shares why packaged DX units with variable speed compressors are the ideal choice, offering flexibility as plants grow and the environment changes. He also discusses how 24/7 monitoring and service calls are handled, and how they’re leveraging technology to streamline maintenance. The conversation wraps up by exploring the growing trend of “HVAC as a service” and its impact on businesses, especially those in the cannabis industry that may not have the capital for large upfront investments.

John also touches on the future of HVAC service models, comparing them to data centers and explaining how the shift from large capital expenditures to manageable monthly expenses can help businesses grow more efficiently. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone in the HVAC field, particularly those working with or interested in the cannabis industry.

**Expect to Learn:**

- How Harvest Integrated handles retrofit applications and provides full HVAC solutions.
- Why packaged DX units with variable speed compressors are best for grow operations.
- How 24/7 monitoring and streamlined service improve system reliability.
- The advantages of "HVAC as a service" for growers and businesses.
- Why shifting from capital expenses to operating expenses can help businesses scale effectively.

**Episode Highlights:**

[00:33] - Introduction Part 2 with John Zimmerman

[02:48] - Full HVAC Solutions: Design, Ductwork, and Electrical Services

[04:12] - Subcontracting Work vs. In-House Installers and Service

[05:48] - Best HVAC Equipment for Grow Rooms: Packaged DX Units vs. Four-Pipe Systems

[08:50] - Variable Speed Compressors and Scalability for Grow Operations

[10:33] - Managing Evaporator Coils and Filters in Humid Environments

[13:08] - Pricing and Business Model: HVAC as a Service for Growers

[16:05] - Expanding HVAC as a Service Beyond the Cannabis Industry

[20:18] - The Future of HVAC Service Models

**This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:**

Master: <https://www.master.ca/>

Cintas: <https://www.cintas.com/>

Cool Air Products: <https://www.coolairproducts.net/>

property.com: <https://mccreadie.property.com>

SupplyHouse: <https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm>  
 Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!

**Follow the Guest John Zimmerman on:**

LinkedIn: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-zimmerman-p-e-3161216/>

Harvest Integrated: <https://www.linkedin.com/company/harvestintegrated/>

**Follow the Host:**

LinkedIn: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/>

Website: <https://www.hvacknowitall.com>

Facebook: <https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/>

Instagram: <https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/>

--------------------------------------------------

# ID: 74b0a060-e128-4890-99e6-dabe1032f63d

## Title: How HVAC Design & Redundancy Protect Cannabis Grow Rooms & Boost Yields with John Zimmerman Part 1

## Type: podcast

## Link: http://sites.libsyn.com/568690/how-hvac-design-redundancy-protect-cannabis-grow-rooms-boost-yields-with-john-zimmerman-part-1

## Publish Date: Thu, 14 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0000

## Duration: 20:18

## Thumbnail:
![Thumbnail](media/Podcast_Test/podcast_74b0a060-e128-4890-99e6-dabe1032f63d_thumbnail_John_Zimmerman_Part_1-20250815-ghn0rapzhv.png)

## Description:
In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host [Gary McCreadie](https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/) chats with [John Zimmerman](https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-zimmerman-p-e-3161216/), Founder & CEO of [Harvest Integrated](https://www.linkedin.com/company/harvestintegrated/), to kick off a two-part conversation about the unique challenges of HVAC systems in the cannabis industry. John, who has a strong background in data center cooling, brings valuable expertise to the table, now applied to creating optimal environments for indoor grow operations. At Harvest Integrated, John and his team provide “climate as a service,” helping cannabis growers with reliable and efficient HVAC systems, tailored to their specific needs.

The discussion in part one focuses on the complexities of maintaining the perfect environment for plant growth. John explains how HVAC requirements for grow rooms are similar to those in data centers but with added challenges, like the high humidity produced by the plants. He walks Gary through the different stages of plant growth, including vegetative, flowering, and drying, and how each requires specific adjustments to temperature and humidity control. He also highlights the importance of redundancy in these systems to prevent costly downtime and potential crop loss.

John shares how Harvest Integrated’s business model offers a comprehensive service to growers, from designing and installing systems to maintaining and repairing them over time. The company’s unique approach ensures that growers have the support they need without the typical issues of system failures and lack of proper service. Tune in for part one of this insightful conversation, and stay tuned for the second part where John talks about the real-world applications and challenges in the cannabis HVAC space.

**Expect to Learn:**

- The unique HVAC challenges of cannabis grow rooms and how they differ from other industries.
- Why humidity control is key in maintaining a healthy environment for plants.
- How each stage of plant growth requires specific temperature and humidity adjustments.
- Why redundancy in HVAC systems is critical to prevent costly downtime.
- How Harvest Integrated’s "climate as a service" model supports growers with ongoing system management.

**Episode Highlights:**

[00:00] - Introduction to John Zimmerman and Harvest Integrated

[03:35] - HVAC Challenges in Cannabis Grow Rooms

[04:09] - Comparing Grow Room HVAC to Data Centers

[05:32] - The Importance of Humidity Control in Growing Plants

[08:33] - The Role of Redundancy in HVAC Systems

[11:37] - Different Stages of Plant Growth and HVAC Needs

[16:57] - How Harvest Integrated’s "Climate as a Service" Model Works

[19:17] - The Process of Designing and Maintaining Grow Room HVAC Systems

**This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:**

Master: <https://www.master.ca/>

Cintas: <https://www.cintas.com/>

SupplyHouse: <https://www.supplyhouse.com/>

Cool Air Products: <https://www.coolairproducts.net/>

property.com: <https://mccreadie.property.com>

**Follow the Guest John Zimmerman on:**

LinkedIn: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-zimmerman-p-e-3161216/>

Harvest Integrated: <https://www.linkedin.com/company/harvestintegrated/>

**Follow the Host:**

LinkedIn: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/>

Website: <https://www.hvacknowitall.com>

Facebook:  <https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/>

Instagram: <https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/>

--------------------------------------------------

# ID: c3fd8863-be09-404b-af8b-8414da9de923

## Title: HVAC Rental Trap for Homeowners to Avoid Long-Term Losses and Bad Installs with Scott Pierson Part 2

## Type: podcast

## Link: http://sites.libsyn.com/568690/hvac-rental-trap-for-homeowners-to-avoid-long-term-losses-and-bad-installs-with-scott-pierson-part-2

## Publish Date: Mon, 11 Aug 2025 08:30:00 +0000

## Duration: 19:00

## Thumbnail:
![Thumbnail](media/Podcast_Test/podcast_c3fd8863-be09-404b-af8b-8414da9de923_thumbnail_Scott_Pierson_-_Part_2_-_RSS_Artwork.png)

## Description:
In part 2 of this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host [Gary McCreadie](https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/), Director of Player Development and Head Coach at [Shelburne Soccer Club](https://shelburnesoccerclub.sportngin.com/), and President of [McCreadie HVAC & Refrigeration Services and HVAC Know It All Inc](https://www.linkedin.com/company/mccreadie-hvac-refrigeration-services/), switches roles again to be interviewed by [Scott Pierson](https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-pierson-15121a79/), Vice President of HVAC & Market Strategy at [Encompass Supply Chain Solutions](https://www.linkedin.com/company/encompass-supply-chain-solutions-inc-/). They talk about how much today’s customers really know about HVAC, why correct load calculations matter, and the risks of oversizing or undersizing systems. Gary shares tips for new business owners on choosing the right CRM tools, and they discuss helpful tech like remote support apps for younger technicians. The conversation also looks at how private equity ownership can push sales over service quality, and why doing the job right builds both trust and comfort for customers.

Gary McCreadie joins Scott Pierson to talk about how customer knowledge, technology, and business practices are shaping the HVAC industry today. Gary explains why proper load calculations are key to avoiding problems from oversized or undersized systems. They discuss tools like CRM software and remote support apps that help small businesses and newer techs work smarter. Gary also shares concerns about private equity companies focusing more on sales than service quality. It’s a real conversation on doing quality work, using the right tools, and keeping customers comfortable.

Gary talks about how some customers know more about HVAC than before, but many still misunderstand system needs. He explains why proper sizing through load calculations is so important to avoid comfort and equipment issues. Gary and Scott discuss useful tools like CRM software and remote support apps that help small companies and younger techs work better. They also look at how private equity ownership can push sales over quality service, and why doing the job right matters. It’s a clear, practical talk on using the right tools, making smart choices, and keeping customers happy.

**Expect to Learn:**

- Why proper load calculations are key to avoiding comfort and equipment problems.
- How CRM software and remote support apps help small businesses and new techs work smarter.
- What risks come from oversizing or undersizing HVAC systems?
- How private equity ownership can shift focus from quality service to sales.
- Why is doing the job right build trust, comfort, and long-term customer satisfaction?

**Episode Highlights:**

[00:00] - Introduction to Gary McCreadie in Part 02

[00:37] - Are Customers More HVAC-Savvy Today?

[03:04] - Why Load Calculations Prevent System Problems

[03:50] - Risks of Oversizing and Undersizing Equipment

[05:58] - Choosing the Right CRM Tools for Your Business

[08:52] - Remote Support Apps Helping Young Technicians

[10:03] - Private Equity’s Impact on Service vs. Sales

[15:17] - Correct Sizing for Better Comfort and Efficiency

[16:24] - Balancing Profit with Quality HVAC Work

**This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:**

Master: <https://www.master.ca/>

Cintas: <https://www.cintas.com/>

Supply House: <https://www.supplyhouse.com/>

Cool Air Products: <https://www.coolairproducts.net/>

property.com: <https://mccreadie.property.com>

**Follow Scott Pierson on:**

LinkedIn: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-pierson-15121a79/>

Encompass Supply Chain Solutions: <https://www.linkedin.com/company/encompass-supply-chain-solutions-inc-/>

**Follow Gary McCreadie on:**

LinkedIn: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/>

McCreadie HVAC & Refrigeration Services: <https://www.linkedin.com/company/mccreadie-hvac-refrigeration-services/>

HVAC Know It All Inc: <https://www.linkedin.com/company/hvac-know-it-all-inc/>

Shelburne Soccer Club: <https://shelburnesoccerclub.sportngin.com/>

Website: <https://www.hvacknowitall.com>

Facebook: <https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/>

Instagram: <https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/>

--------------------------------------------------
